Silicone

[Tazmaniancowboy]

Does the silicone used to hold our glass tanks together ever deteriorate? How about if the tank was dry for any length of time? Like maybe 5-10 years or more

Curious because I've occasionallyseen some older tanks for sale that were stored empty

Taz

 

[danthemanj]

Everything deteriorates over time but certain factors can speed this up. Silicone deterioration can start from between 10-25 years or maybe even longer depending upon the brand, composition and UV exposure. The best place to get the exact details would be from the manufacturer.

 

[DaveK]

I have a 90 gal tank that is over 20 years old, and it never leaked. I'm sure others have had similar experiences. Over the typical live of a tank, I doubt if you would ever have a problem, provided you installed the tank correctly.

The greater danger is if you place the tank on a surface that is skewed front to back and left to right. Over time, this will place unequal stress on the tank's silicone seals, causing it to leak.

 

[Jcurry@wesketch]

UV is the biggest threat to the life of silicone. If the tank is stored out of direct sunlight the silicone will last much longer.